Mauna Loa volcano, the world’s largest active volcano, erupts for the first time in nearly four decades

The US Geological Survey assures that even though lava is flowing down one side of the volcano, the eruption does not pose any threat to the communities. The volcano is in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The agency issued an advisory and said - “All indications are that the eruption will remain in the Northeast Rift Zone.” Referring to an area where the volcano is splitting, allowing for lava flow, it added - “Volcanic gas and possibly fine ash and Pele’s Hair (strands of lava glass) may be carried downwind.” However, a “trace to less than one quarter inch” of ashfall could accumulate on parts of the island. That is what the National Weather Service in Honolulu. The state Transportation Department also issued an advisory for those who plan to fly. It said - “Passengers with flights to Hilo International Airport (ITO) or the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA) should check with their airline prior to heading to the airport due to the volcanic activity at Mauna Loa.” The airline also announced that Southwest Airlines is not operating from Hilo International Monday because of the eruption. It has canceled five flights to and from Honolulu. Hawaii’s Mauna Loa is erupting for the first time since 1984. The US Federal Aviation Administration issued a statement saying – it is “closely monitoring the volcanic eruption and will issue air traffic advisories once the size of the ash cloud is determined.”

The agency confirmed there is no threat to nearby communities, and no evacuation orders issued. However, as a precaution, two shelters have opened. The weather service says falling ash can damage vehicles, buildings, and lead to contamination of water supplies, disruption in sewage and electrical systems, and damage or destruction of vegetation. Moreover, abrasive volcanic ash could lead to irritation of eyes and lungs. Those who suffer from respiratory illnesses should remain indoors to avoid inhaling the ash particles and anyone outside should cover their mouth and nose with a mask or cloth. Hawaii, or the Big Island, has an area of about 4,000 square miles. It is the largest of the Hawaiian chain but has a population of just over 200,000 people. This works out to less than 50 people per square mile. Most of them live in cities and communities around the coast.

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